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Losing a limb, or losing the ability to use a limb, due to military service is life-altering. Whether you’ve had an amputation or suffer from total loss of function, the VA offers disability compensation based on how much your condition impacts your daily life.
In this guide, we’ll explain how the VA rates amputations and loss of use, what qualifies, and how to get the maximum VA compensation you deserve, including potential Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
Table of Contents
Summary of Key Points
- The VA assigns amputation ratings based on the location and degree of functional loss, with specific percentages assigned for each limb or digit.
- The VA may assign the same disability rating for a loss of limb (amputation) or loss of use if the functional impact is equivalent; both may also qualify for additional SMC benefits.
- Veterans may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for severe or multiple amputations, including specific SMC-K through SMC-O benefits.
- Amputation ratings are typically permanent, and veterans may receive TDIU if unemployable due to their condition.
Amputations in Veterans
Amputations have a profound impact on far more than physical health.
Veterans commonly face:
- Phantom limb pain
- Depression or anxiety
- Employment barriers
- Social withdrawal
In a study published in the National Library of Medicine’s National Center for Biotechnology Information, veterans cited diminished quality of life, difficulty adjusting to prosthetics, and economic instability as common challenges faced when navigating their amputation.
Did You Know?
Even a single limb amputation may qualify you for SMC-K, a bonus payment added on top of your normal VA disability compensation—and it’s often overlooked by veterans.
What’s the Difference Between Amputation and Loss of Use?
While amputations involve the physical removal of a limb or digit, loss of use means the body part is still present but no longer functional. If the VA determines your condition is just as limiting as an amputation, they may assign the same disability rating—and in some cases, qualify you for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
Example: If your leg is paralyzed and you can’t use it to walk or balance, the VA may rate it the same as an above-the-knee amputation.
How the VA Rates Amputations
The VA uses the VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities to assign VA ratings for amputations under the Musculoskeletal System.
VA ratings range from 10% to 100%, depending on:
- Location of the amputation
- Degree of tissue and bone loss
- Functional impairment
- Ability to wear a prosthesis or perform daily activities
Upper Extremity Amputation VA Ratings
The VA rates upper extremity amputation using diagnostic codes 5120-5156, depending on which part of the arm or hand is affected, whether the amputation is complete or partial, and whether the limb is on the dominant (major) or non-dominant (minor) side.
Note: The VA may assign the same rating for loss of use if the limb is no longer functional, even if it hasn’t been amputated. This includes cases where a prosthesis would provide equal or better function.
100% VA Rating
- Amputation of the arm involving complete removal of the humerus along with any portion of the scapula, clavicle, and/or ribs.
90% VA Rating
- Amputation of the arm involving complete removal of the humerus at the shoulder joint, without removing the shoulder blade, collarbone, or ribs.
- Amputation below the shoulder but above the shoulder muscle (deltoid), in the dominant arm.
80% VA Rating
- Amputation of the arm below the shoulder but above the elbow for the non-dominant arm, or below the shoulder muscle (deltoid) but above the elbow for the dominant arm, or
- Amputation of the arm above the pronator teres for the dominant arm.
70% VA Rating
- Amputation of the non-dominant arm below the shoulder muscle (deltoid) but above the elbow, or above the forearm muscle (pronator teres), or
- Amputation below the insertion point of the pronator teres in the dominant arm, or complete amputation of the dominant hand.
60% VA Rating
- Amputation below the insertion of the pronator teres in the non-dominant arm, or complete amputation of the non-dominant hand.
Various 10-70% VA Rating
- Various ratings are assigned for amputations of fingers, depending on which finger(s) are affected, whether the amputation is partial or complete, and whether it involves the dominant or non-dominant hand.
Lower Extremity Amputation VA Ratings
The VA rates lower extremity amputation using diagnostic codes 5160-5173, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%, depending on the level of amputation, the extent of tissue loss, and the degree to which the amputation affects your ability to walk and perform daily activities.
Note: The VA may assign the same rating for loss of use if the limb is no longer functional, even if it hasn’t been amputated. This includes cases where a prosthesis would provide equal or better function.
100% VA Rating
- Complete amputation of the leg at the pelvic level, including the entire thigh bone (femur), surrounding muscles, and part or all of the pelvic bones.
90% VA Rating
- Amputation of the leg, including the entire thigh bone (femur) and the nearby pelvic muscles, but the pelvic bones are left in place.
80% VA Rating
- Amputation of the upper third of the leg, removing the top one-third of the distance from the groin area (perineum) to the knee, measured starting at the groin.
60% VA Rating
- Amputation of the middle or lower third of the leg, or
- Leg amputation with a damaged stump, where a thigh amputation is recommended, or
- Amputation that can’t be improved with a prosthesis because natural knee movement is not possible
40% VA Rating
- Amputation at a lower level of the foot that allows the use of a prosthesis, or
- Forefoot amputation above the metatarsal bones, with more than half of the metatarsals removed, or
- Loss of use of the entire foot
Various 10-40% VA Rating
Various ratings are given for toe(s) amputations depending on the number of toes affected, which toes are amputated, and how the amputation impacts your ability to walk and perform daily activities.
VA Service Connection
To qualify for VA disability benefits, you must prove service connection by establishing all three of the following:
- A current medical diagnosis of amputation or loss of use
- An in-service event, injury, or illness that could have caused or contributed to your condition
- A medical nexus linking your current condition to your military service
Related Post: VA Service Connection Explained: How to Prove Your VA Disability Claim!
How to File a VA Claim
To qualify for a VA disability rating, you must file a VA claim using VA Form 21-526EZ.
You can file a VA claim:
- By mail
- Via fax
- In person at a VA regional office
When filing, be sure to include all relevant medical evidence, such as surgical reports, information on prosthetic devices, and any related treatment records.
Pro Tip: Providing thorough documentation helps the VA accurately assess your disability and can reduce delays in processing your claim.
Related Post: How to File a VA Claim Online
C&P Exam for Amputation
A compensation & pension (C&P) exam plays a key role in determining your VA disability rating for an amputation. During the exam, the VA assesses the impact of the amputation on your mobility, daily activities, and overall quality of life.
To make the most of your exam:
- Clearly describe your symptoms: Talk about any pain, limited mobility, phantom limb sensations, or difficulties with balance, walking, or daily tasks.
- Bring supporting documentation: Include recent medical records, details about your prosthetic (if used), and any private evaluations.
- Be honest and detailed: Explain how your condition affects your life on both good and bad days. Don’t downplay your struggles.
Did you know? Not everyone needs a C&P exam. The VA will contact you if they need more information to decide your claim.
Related Post: How Do I Know If My C&P Exam Went Well?
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) for Amputations
In addition to standard compensation, veterans with amputations may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
SMC is a higher-level benefit paid for specific disabilities, such as the loss or loss of use of limbs or organs.
There are two categories to be aware of:
- SMC-K: Provides additional monthly pay for each anatomical loss or loss of use, such as the loss of a hand, foot, or reproductive organ. This can be added to the veteran’s combined disability rating.
- SMC-L through SMC-O: These levels are awarded for more complex or combined losses, such as loss of both feet or one arm and one leg. Payments increase with severity and loss of independence.
The VA Amputation System of Care (ASoC) supports veterans with rehabilitation services.
Related Post: VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) Rates & Pay Chart
Permanent Ratings and Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU)
For many veterans with amputations, the condition is permanent and not expected to improve.
The VA typically assigns permanent ratings for amputations, especially when they involve significant functional loss or inability to wear a prosthesis.
Veterans who can’t sustain substantially gainful employment due to their amputations may also qualify for Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU).
To qualify for TDIU, you must have:
- One service-connected disability rated at 60% or more, or
- Two or more service-connected disabilities, with one at least 40% and a combined VA rating of 70% or more
Related Post: How to Check If Your VA Disability Rating is 100% Permanent and Total
Options if Your VA Claim is Denied
Getting a VA claim denied after an amputation can feel frustrating and discouraging, but it’s not the end of the road.
Common reasons for denial include:
- Missing or insufficient proof that the amputation is service-connected
- Conflicting or incomplete medical records
- Outdated or inadequate Compensation & Pension (C&P) exams
If this happens, you have the right to appeal the decision or request a review by a Decision Review Officer (DRO).
Pro Tip: Strengthening your claim with updated medical evidence, a nexus letter from a qualified provider, and a detailed personal statement can significantly improve your chances of success.
Related Posts:
Use This Decision Tree to Appeal a VA Disability Claim Denial!
The VA DENIED My Claim: Now What?
(FAQs) Frequently Asked Questions
What amputations qualify for VA disability?
Amputations that qualify for VA disability include the loss of a limb, digit, or use of an extremity due to a service-connected injury, illness, or condition. The VA evaluates each case based on the location and severity of the amputation and how it affects your daily functioning.
What is the VA loss of limb compensation?
VA loss of limb compensation provides disability payments based on the level and severity of the amputation, with ratings ranging from 10% to 100%. Veterans with severe amputations may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation, which offers additional benefits for the loss or loss of use of limbs.
Can I get extra money for multiple amputations?
Yes, veterans may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC), which increases monthly benefits for severe or multiple amputations.
What’s the difference between amputation and loss of use?
Amputation is the physical removal of a limb or body part. Loss of use means the body part is still present but no longer functions effectively.
Can loss of use receive the same VA rating as an amputation?
Yes. If the VA determines that a prosthetic would serve you just as well as the non-functioning limb, they may assign the same VA disability rating.
What happens if my amputation claim is denied?
You can appeal using a Higher-Level Review, file a Supplemental Claim, or request a Board hearing.
How do I know if my amputation rating is permanent?
If the VA determines your condition won’t improve, such as with most amputations, they may grant a Permanent and Total (P&T) rating, which means no future exams are required.
Does the VA treat loss of limb and loss of use the same way?
In most cases, yes. The VA evaluates both based on functional loss and how much the condition impacts your mobility and independence. Both conditions may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC).
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Author
Kelly Olone
Kelly Olone is a military spouse who earned her degree in Psychology from Florida International University. After working in the non-profit sector for several years, she turned to her passion for writing. She aims to contribute to a better understanding of the valuable benefits that veterans deserve. As a mom, Kelly navigates the delicate balance between deadlines and bedtime stories with finesse.
